W8.1 and USB to RS232

[mac]

The XP small lap-top computer's screen died that I used to control C version. Replacement computer (Lenovo X140e) used the ugly Windows 8.1 After a major effort, the new computer acts mostly like W7 computer. However, I have tried everything I can think of to have the X140e communicate with Rosewill USB/RS232 adapter. The same adapter works with a W7 computer. The X140e notes that an adapter has been pluged in but can not use driver to communicate. I went to Prolific site and tried their driver [ser2pl64.sys] and I tried MS's driver [serenum.sys].
Help. If Rosewill-Prolific adapter can not be used with W8.1, then what lower cost adapter has been found to work with W8.1?

73, mac N8TT

[Bob]

Hi Mac,

Be sure to use a usb adapter based on the FTDI chip. Win 7 and 8 don't work with a lot of adapters, like Prolific.
There are details on my website about setting up the I/O, including the FAQ page and a document on using a tablet running Win 8.1.

1. Be sure the computer is connected to the internet.
2. Turn on the AIM and then plug in the usb adapter to the pc.
3. Win 8.1 should scan the internet to find the driver. This may take a few minutes but it's automatic.
4. Then use the Device Manager to find the comm port that was assigned. It's usually better to use comm port 4 or greater.

You can find FTDI adapters on eBay for around $10-$12. They cost a little more but they work with Win 7 and 8.
Look for the letters FTDI (that's the name of the company that makes the chips). The sellers are proud of that. It's a sign of quality.

On ebay search for: FTDI Premium USB To Serial Cable
I got one from EarthPeopleTechnology six months ago that worked fine with win 8.1
They have one listed now for $9.99 plus $2.50 S/H. 

--73/Bob

[mac]

Dear Bob:

I suspected that the Prolific chip-using devices plus W8.1 did not work - no matter what Prolific says on their site.

I approach E-bay with care. The more conventional vendors seem not to tell which chip is used. However, I will find a device using the F chips.

Should have waited for the model with internal USB port <grin>. What I really need is a means to convert W8.1 to W7 - but . . . .

Thanks for your help and for an invaluable instrument. 73, mac N8TT

[mac]

Update: I bought a Sabrent CB-FT1K USB to RS232 and it works with Windows 8.1. $12 from Tiger Direct.
W8.1 is no-good (most polite thing I can say) As a gift, it is far too expensive. With son's help, I will remove
drive, replace with new drive, install a purchased copy of W7, and reinstall the few programs that I need.

I downloaded the September 2, 2014 set of programs for my C model and everything appears to work.

Avoid W8 and W8.1 if you intend to use a computer as a computer. 73, mac N8TT